WHEREAS, KeVen Parker, born and raised in West Philadelphia, was a trailblazing, community-minded entrepreneur; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Parker was a self-made success story, opening various soul food eateries, particularly the famed Ms. Tootsie’s, and Keven Parker’s Soul Food Cafe. His success expanded to oversee six distinct entities, corporate offices of The KeVen Parker Company, and even his own lifestyle brand, KPD Lifestyle; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Parker’s own achievements paved the way for future Black restaurateurs and entrepreneurs, and he continued to pay it forward by counseling, mentoring and helping others pursue their own success; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Parker made award-winning dishes that have been sampled by Patti LaBelle, Oprah Winfrey, Will Smith, Mo'Nique, and former President Bill Clinton. His famous Ms. Tootsie’s was named the best Southern-style restaurant for three years running in Black Enterprise magazine and appeared frequently on televised food shows. The Food Network’s Robert Irvine raved about his fried chicken on
The Best Thing I Ever Ate
; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Parker was a pillar of the Black community in Philadelphia whose mother, Ms. Joyce Parker, served as his inspiration and role model, instilling strong morals and values in KeVen; and
WHEREAS, His Spread the Love Campaign helped many through charitable giving efforts a. These acts included donating groceries and meals to families in need, helping a senior citizen, or assisting a family who was behind in paying their bills; and
WHEREAS, His support to the community extended to workforce development as well, with The KeVen Parker Company performing community outreach that included the Youth Adult Division, giving young men and women the opportunity to work for a progressive and upwardly mobile company, while gaining valuable skills in entrepreneurship; and
WHEREAS, KeVen Parker’s dedication to his craft and his community is exceptional, and his legacy will be remembered for generations of Philadelphians and Black-owned businesses to come; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Also names the 1300 block of South Street “KeVen Parker Way” to recognize, honor, and celebrate the life and legacy of KeVen Parker and his dedication to the citizens of Philadelphia.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the family of KeVen Parker, further evidencing the sincere admiration and respect of this legislative body.
End